Prior to 2003, women's flat track derby was essentially nonexistent. Those who played did so nonprofessionally and got no credit for their skill, athleticism and dedication. But that has since changed. Today there are more than 300 Flat Track Derby leagues in the world. The women skaters are the primary owners of the league - they dictate the rules, make sure all is fair and keep interest in the sport alive. But none of this could have happened without the creation of the first league, which happened to be in Austin.

The Texas Rollergirls formed in 2003 as a league owned and run by the skaters themselves. There are officially four local teams: the Hell Marys, Honkytonk Heartbreakers, Hustlers and Hotrod Honeys. Additionally, an all-star team, the Texecutioners, was created in 2006 to play in the Women's Flat Track Derby Association National Championship. Competitions are held at the Playland Skate Center, where crowds of up to 1,100 spectators can be accommodated and almost always are. There are also exhibition games and interstate competitions throughout the season. Information on those meets can be found at the Texas Rollergirls Web site, www.txrollergirls.com.

But the Rollergirls do more than skate. After the death of one of the Rollergirls? most beloved members AmberDiva, the league came together to form the Tulsa Fund. Tulsa is Amber's son and was promised by the girls that all of his needs would be met. Any donations made through the Rollergirls Web site for Tulsa are used to help the little boy, who may grow up without a mother but will never be without support.

The Texas Rollergirls have also formed a junior league. The league is a result of collaboration between the Rollergirls and the Austin Derby Brats. It is open to all girls, ages 8-17, and in the eyes of the league, represents the future of the derby. The girls are trained by the Rollergirls themselves and have just begun their first season back on Sept. 18, 2008. Any interested in joining are more than encouraged to and can get information from the Rollergirls? Web site.

If you are looking for a more involved way to be a part of the Rollergirls, consider trying out. You have to be female, naturally, and over the age of 18, but if you have the skill, the Rollergirls are ready and waiting. If you lack skating ability but have a musical ear, you could always vie for a spot at one of the season's bouts. Considering how often the meets sell out, you couldn't ask for much better coverage.

Of course, if you'd rather just watch, that's an option too. Information about all of the bouts can be found at www.txrollergirls.com. Regular season games are $12 in advance, $15 at the door. Children under 12 are free. You can purchase your tickets at Playland Skate Center, Rio Rita Caf? or Cheapo Discs. And if you have the opportunity, you definitely should. The Texas Rollergirls are history - they are the first in the country to take a sport that was barely recognized and make it an international phenomenon.